Former Man Utd icons advise Martinez to mature amid lingering dispute

Lisandro Martinez, the Manchester United defender, received advice to "mature" from Old Trafford legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt following his sharp retort to their earlier remarks.

The Argentine player invited Scholes to visit his home for a direct conversation after the ex-England midfielder and his former United colleague Butt teased him about his stature.

Scholes and Butt had ridiculed the short centre-backs prospects of prevailing in challenges against the imposing Manchester City forward Erling Haaland in the recent derby match.

They had quipped that Haaland might simply lift Martinez and carry him away.

However, Martinez emerged triumphant with a strong showing in Uniteds 2-0 victory, capping it off with a pointed reply to the jabs from Scholes and Butt.

The ex-United pair discussed Martinezs statements in the newest instalment of their podcast The Good, The Bad and The Football on Monday.

Scholes commended Martinezs display yet expressed lingering reservations about the 28-year-old.

"Criticism can motivate individuals," he remarked. "We deserve some recognition for spurring Martinezs effort on Saturday.

"He delivered one outstanding match, but when you begin responding so vocally, football often finds ways to humble you.

"My view remains unchanged for now. Im uncertain if a team can secure a title with him in the lineup. He needs to maintain that level consistently over time. His Saturday effort was excellent, yet consistency is key."

Scholes mentioned sending social media messages to Martinez along with his contact details, but received no reply.

Butt suggested that Martinezs response to their banter highlighted concerns about his mindset.

"It was light-hearted banter, clearly Haaland wont literally scoop him up and dash off, it was just an expression," he explained. "Getting so worked up over media or podcast comments to the point of inviting someone over, thats immature.

"If youre that sensitive to opinions about you, playing for a major club like Man United isnt for you, as such scrutiny will continue throughout your time there.

"We hold no grudge against Martinez, absolutely none."